Suspected drug lab uncovered in Richmond, B.C.

Neighbours say they’re shocked a suspected drug lab was found next door to an elementary school in a residential Richmond, B.C., neighbourhood.

Emergency crews responded to the home at 9440 Alberta Road after a fire broke out on Tuesday night.

Inside, crews found ventilation pipes in the garage, large blue barrels and chemicals used in drug production. Police say the home was being used as a clandestine drug lab.

“It's just shocking,” said neighbour Neil Baylen. “It’s like, wow — just right in your backyard that this type of thing is happening.”

Police say they're disturbed organized criminals would choose the location to manufacture drugs, especially considering a school is next door.

“It's pretty quiet, you know, elementary school, close to the park,” said neighbour Robert Arruda. “It’s surprising that there is a meth lab there but not really surprising in this day and age because they are all over the place.”

Investigators plan to continue searching the house Thursday morning.

Police say no one was in the home at the time of the fire.

Police say they don’t have any suspects at this point but they are trying to track down the owners of the property.